The better way to get divorced.
File for Divorce Online — Without the High Costs or Conflict
Answer a few questions to see your personalized divorce options in under 3 minutes.
Written By:
Divorce.com Staff
Louisiana Divorce Timelines by Scenario
Fastest possible: 2-3 months (no children, uncontested, no waiting period) | Typical uncontested without children: 2-5 months | Uncontested WITH children: 6-12 months (180-day waiting period) | Contested: 8-24+ months | The #1 factor: Whether you have CHILDREN. Louisiana has different rules for divorces with and without children. Louisiana is community property state (one of nine).
Residency: 6 months for petitioner OR 12 months if spouse non-resident. | NO WAITING if no children: Can finalize immediately after filing if uncontested. | 180-DAY WAITING if children: Mandatory 180 days living separate and apart BEFORE filing if minor children involved. This is LONGEST child-related waiting period in US. | Community Property: Louisiana is one of nine community property states. All marital property 50/50.
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
Scenario 1: Uncontested Divorce Without Children
Timeline: 2-4 months (NO children) or 6-12 months (WITH children) | WITHOUT CHILDREN: File petition. No waiting period required. Serve spouse. Spouse files answer or defaults. Exchange community property schedules. Prepare judgment. Attend hearing (may be waived). Judgment entered. Can finalize in 60-90 days if uncontested. | WITH CHILDREN (180-day separation required): Live separate and apart for 180 days BEFORE filing. File petition after 180-day separation met. Serve spouse. Exchange financial affidavits. Prepare parenting plan and judgment. Attend hearing. Judgment. | Parish Variations: Orleans Parish (New Orleans): Without children: 3-5 months. With children: 7-12 months (after 180-day separation). East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Jefferson Parish (Metairie/West Bank): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Smaller parishes: Often faster.
Scenario 2: Uncontested Divorce With Children
Timeline: 6-12 months (AFTER 180-day separation) | Requirements: Must live separate and apart for 180 days BEFORE filing if minor children. Parenting plan. Child support per Louisiana guidelines. May require parent education in some parishes. | Process: Live separate and apart 180 days. File petition. Serve spouse. Exchange financials. Prepare parenting plan. Hearing (usually required with children). Judgment. | Louisiana Children Requirement: 180-day separation before filing is MANDATORY. This is unique to Louisiana and is longest child-related waiting period in nation. Cannot file until 180 days of separation completed. Clock starts when you begin living separate and apart (can be in same house if separate bedrooms and lives).
Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.
Scenario 3: Contested Divorce (Settled Before Trial)
Timeline: 8-24+ months | Issues: Community property disputes (what's separate vs community). Debt allocation (also 50/50 community). Alimony disagreements. Custody battles. | Louisiana Specifics: Community property state (all marital property/debt 50/50). Separate property must be proven. Alimony available based on factors. Covenant marriage option (Louisiana, Arizona, Arkansas only) has stricter divorce requirements.
Scenario 4: Fully Contested Divorce With Trial
Timeline: 12-30+ months | Louisiana trials can be lengthy, especially in Orleans Parish. | Costs: Attorney fees: $10,000-$60,000+ per side (New Orleans highest). Experts: $5,000-$20,000. Total: $25,000-$120,000+.
Scenario 5: Divorce With Domestic Violence
Timeline: Varies | Protection: Protective Order. Emergency order available. Then divorce. | Modifications: May waive 180-day separation requirement in DV cases. No mediation required.
We've helped with
over 1 million divorces
We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.
The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.
Proudly featured in these publications
Scenario 6: Military Divorce in Ohio
Timeline: Varies by children and agreement. | Installations: Barksdale AFB (Bossier Parish), Fort Johnson/formerly Polk (Vernon Parish), Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans (Orleans Parish). | SCRA applies.,Timeline: 10-30+ months | New Orleans (Uptown
Scenario 7: High-Asset Divorce
Garden District)
Our Services
Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
How to Speed Up Your Ohio Divorce
Baton Rouge
Louisiana County-Specific Timelines
Lafayette affluent areas. Oil/gas industry wealth. Business ownership. Offshore assets. Community property. | Louisiana Issues: Unique Louisiana civil law (based on Napoleonic Code
Cost Impact of Divorce Timeline
not English common law). Community property rules differ from other community property states."
Common Delays in Louisiana Divorces
1. Understand Children Requirement: 180-day separation BEFORE filing if minor children (longest in nation). Plan accordingly. | 2. No Waiting if No Children: Can finalize quickly if uncontested. | 3. Separate Residence: 180-day separation can be in same house if separate bedrooms and separate lives. Document separation date. | 4. Community Property: All marital property/debt 50/50. Simplifies division if you agree. | 5. Use Online Services: Louisiana forms complex due to civil law system. $500-$2,500 vs $5,000-$30,000 attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orleans Parish (New Orleans): Without children: 3-5 months. With children: 7-12 months (after separation). Largest parish. Contested: 15-30+ months. Backlog. | East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Contested: 12-24 months. | Jefferson Parish (Metairie): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Contested: 10-20 months. | Lafayette Parish: Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Contested: 10-18 months. | Smaller parishes: Without children: 2-3 months. With children: 6-8 months. Less backlog.
The Bottom Line
Uncontested (no children): DIY: $200-$350. Online: $500-$2,000. Attorney: $2,500-$5,000. Timeline: 2-5 months. | Uncontested (with children): DIY: $200-$350. Online: $500-$2,500. Attorney: $3,000-$6,000. Timeline: 6-12 months (plus 180-day separation before filing). | Contested: Mediation: $3,000-$10,000. Attorneys: $10,000-$30,000 per side. Trial: Attorneys: $10,000-$60,000+ per side. Experts: $5,000-$20,000. Total: $25,000-$120,000+.
Other Articles:
State Divorce Guides
City Divorce Guides
Divorce Cost in Baton Rouge, LA (2026 Guide)
Lafayette Divorce Cost in Louisiana: 2026 Price Breakdown
How Much Does Divorce Cost in New Orleans, LA (2026)?
County Divorce Guides
Real Answers. Real Support.
We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
The better way to get divorced.
Answer a few questions to see your personalized divorce options in under 3 minutes.
Louisiana Divorce Timelines by Scenario
Fastest possible: 2-3 months (no children, uncontested, no waiting period) | Typical uncontested without children: 2-5 months | Uncontested WITH children: 6-12 months (180-day waiting period) | Contested: 8-24+ months | The #1 factor: Whether you have CHILDREN. Louisiana has different rules for divorces with and without children. Louisiana is community property state (one of nine).
Residency: 6 months for petitioner OR 12 months if spouse non-resident. | NO WAITING if no children: Can finalize immediately after filing if uncontested. | 180-DAY WAITING if children: Mandatory 180 days living separate and apart BEFORE filing if minor children involved. This is LONGEST child-related waiting period in US. | Community Property: Louisiana is one of nine community property states. All marital property 50/50.
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
Scenario 1: Uncontested Divorce Without Children
Timeline: 2-4 months (NO children) or 6-12 months (WITH children) | WITHOUT CHILDREN: File petition. No waiting period required. Serve spouse. Spouse files answer or defaults. Exchange community property schedules. Prepare judgment. Attend hearing (may be waived). Judgment entered. Can finalize in 60-90 days if uncontested. | WITH CHILDREN (180-day separation required): Live separate and apart for 180 days BEFORE filing. File petition after 180-day separation met. Serve spouse. Exchange financial affidavits. Prepare parenting plan and judgment. Attend hearing. Judgment. | Parish Variations: Orleans Parish (New Orleans): Without children: 3-5 months. With children: 7-12 months (after 180-day separation). East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Jefferson Parish (Metairie/West Bank): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Smaller parishes: Often faster.
Scenario 2: Uncontested Divorce With Children
Timeline: 6-12 months (AFTER 180-day separation) | Requirements: Must live separate and apart for 180 days BEFORE filing if minor children. Parenting plan. Child support per Louisiana guidelines. May require parent education in some parishes. | Process: Live separate and apart 180 days. File petition. Serve spouse. Exchange financials. Prepare parenting plan. Hearing (usually required with children). Judgment. | Louisiana Children Requirement: 180-day separation before filing is MANDATORY. This is unique to Louisiana and is longest child-related waiting period in nation. Cannot file until 180 days of separation completed. Clock starts when you begin living separate and apart (can be in same house if separate bedrooms and lives).
Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.
Scenario 3: Contested Divorce (Settled Before Trial)
Timeline: 8-24+ months | Issues: Community property disputes (what's separate vs community). Debt allocation (also 50/50 community). Alimony disagreements. Custody battles. | Louisiana Specifics: Community property state (all marital property/debt 50/50). Separate property must be proven. Alimony available based on factors. Covenant marriage option (Louisiana, Arizona, Arkansas only) has stricter divorce requirements.
Scenario 4: Fully Contested Divorce With Trial
Timeline: 12-30+ months | Louisiana trials can be lengthy, especially in Orleans Parish. | Costs: Attorney fees: $10,000-$60,000+ per side (New Orleans highest). Experts: $5,000-$20,000. Total: $25,000-$120,000+.
Scenario 5: Divorce With Domestic Violence
Timeline: Varies | Protection: Protective Order. Emergency order available. Then divorce. | Modifications: May waive 180-day separation requirement in DV cases. No mediation required.
We've helped with
over 1 million divorces
We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.
The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.
Proudly featured in these publications
Scenario 6: Military Divorce in Ohio
Timeline: Varies by children and agreement. | Installations: Barksdale AFB (Bossier Parish), Fort Johnson/formerly Polk (Vernon Parish), Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans (Orleans Parish). | SCRA applies.,Timeline: 10-30+ months | New Orleans (Uptown
Scenario 7: High-Asset Divorce
Garden District)
Our Services
Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
How to Speed Up Your Ohio Divorce
Baton Rouge
Louisiana County-Specific Timelines
Lafayette affluent areas. Oil/gas industry wealth. Business ownership. Offshore assets. Community property. | Louisiana Issues: Unique Louisiana civil law (based on Napoleonic Code
Cost Impact of Divorce Timeline
not English common law). Community property rules differ from other community property states."
Common Delays in Louisiana Divorces
1. Understand Children Requirement: 180-day separation BEFORE filing if minor children (longest in nation). Plan accordingly. | 2. No Waiting if No Children: Can finalize quickly if uncontested. | 3. Separate Residence: 180-day separation can be in same house if separate bedrooms and separate lives. Document separation date. | 4. Community Property: All marital property/debt 50/50. Simplifies division if you agree. | 5. Use Online Services: Louisiana forms complex due to civil law system. $500-$2,500 vs $5,000-$30,000 attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orleans Parish (New Orleans): Without children: 3-5 months. With children: 7-12 months (after separation). Largest parish. Contested: 15-30+ months. Backlog. | East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Contested: 12-24 months. | Jefferson Parish (Metairie): Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Contested: 10-20 months. | Lafayette Parish: Without children: 2-4 months. With children: 6-10 months. Contested: 10-18 months. | Smaller parishes: Without children: 2-3 months. With children: 6-8 months. Less backlog.
The Bottom Line
Uncontested (no children): DIY: $200-$350. Online: $500-$2,000. Attorney: $2,500-$5,000. Timeline: 2-5 months. | Uncontested (with children): DIY: $200-$350. Online: $500-$2,500. Attorney: $3,000-$6,000. Timeline: 6-12 months (plus 180-day separation before filing). | Contested: Mediation: $3,000-$10,000. Attorneys: $10,000-$30,000 per side. Trial: Attorneys: $10,000-$60,000+ per side. Experts: $5,000-$20,000. Total: $25,000-$120,000+.
Other Articles:
State Divorce Guides
City Divorce Guides
Divorce Cost in Baton Rouge, LA (2026 Guide)
Lafayette Divorce Cost in Louisiana: 2026 Price Breakdown
How Much Does Divorce Cost in New Orleans, LA (2026)?
County Divorce Guides
Real Answers. Real Support.
We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.